In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, hosts Mercedes Alhaj and Scott McAninch sit down with Justin Holley, CEO of Thrive Youth Center, to explore his surprising transition from the hotel industry to running one of San Antonio’s only shelters dedicated to LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness.

You’ll hear how Thrive empowers young people with more than just a roof over their heads—offering life skills training, emotional support, and a path to self-sufficiency. Justin shares the personal moments that sparked his career shift, the unique challenges LGBTQ homeless youth face, and the bold funding strategies that keep Thrive’s mission alive.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How personal turning points can redefine professional purpose

• Why LGBTQ youth need specialized support systems

• How innovative fundraising keeps critical programs running

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries - To learn more, click here.

The Nonprofit Council is a membership organization comprised of the Executive Directors, Presidents and CEO’s of 501(c)3 organizations along with nonprofit professionals and for–profit businesses in South Central Texas. Our mission is to SUPPORT, CONNECT and STRENGTHEN the leadership of nonprofit organizations. We strive to accomplish that mission through advocacy, training, resource sharing and the strength and extensive knowledge of our combined membership.

What does it take to turn passion into purpose? In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, hosts Mercedes and Scott sit down with Maureen DeFelice, CEO of the Daedalion Foundation, to explore how her journey led to supporting the next generation of military aviators. From scholarships to hands-on flight training, the foundation is all about lifting others up—literally and figuratively.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Why real flight experience makes all the difference for future aviators

• The often-overlooked power of a strong, supportive nonprofit board

• Practical tips on fundraising and scaling impact without losing your mission

If you're curious about leadership, purpose-driven work, or just love a good story of transformation, this one’s for you. Hit play and get inspired!

For more information about The NonProfit Council, go to www.nonprofitcouncil.com

This season is being presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries

How do you lead a 122-year-old nonprofit into the future? In this episode, hosts Mercedes Alhaj and Scott McAninch sit down with Mary Garr, CEO of Family Service Association, to explore her remarkable path from military service to nonprofit leadership. Discover how Family Service is tackling the root causes of generational poverty through bold strategies that focus on social determinants of health.

Key highlights include:

• How integrated support systems empower families and communities

• The role of partnerships in expanding impact

• Transparent talk on financial challenges and sustainability in the nonprofit world

Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, aspiring changemaker, or simply curious about community transformation—this episode will leave you inspired.

👉 Tune in and get inspired by the power of purpose-driven leadership!

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries - To learn more, click here.

The Nonprofit Council is a membership organization comprised of the Executive Directors, Presidents and CEO’s of 501(c)3 organizations along with nonprofit professionals and for–profit businesses in South Central Texas. Our mission is to SUPPORT, CONNECT and STRENGTHEN the leadership of nonprofit organizations. We strive to accomplish that mission through advocacy, training, resource sharing and the strength and extensive knowledge of our combined membership.

In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, hosts Mercedes and Scott sit down with Susan Osborne, CEO of CAMP—Children’s Association for Maximum Potential. Susan shares her inspiring journey from managing rental properties and running a plumbing business to leading one of the most impactful nonprofits in Texas.

You'll hear how CAMP provides year-round recreation and respite programs for kids and adults with disabilities, how the camp has grown from an old church retreat into a fully-equipped haven, and why Susan believes every child deserves the chance to swing high and play free—regardless of their abilities.

It’s a heartwarming, real conversation about purpose, leadership, and why volunteers (even teens!) are at the heart of CAMP’s mission.

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries - To learn more, click here.

The Nonprofit Council is a membership organization comprised of the Executive Directors, Presidents and CEO’s of 501(c)3 organizations along with nonprofit professionals and for–profit businesses in South Central Texas. Our mission is to SUPPORT, CONNECT and STRENGTHEN the leadership of nonprofit organizations. We strive to accomplish that mission through advocacy, training, resource sharing and the strength and extensive knowledge of our combined membership.

What does it take to build a meaningful career in the nonprofit world? Armen Babajanian has the answer—one shaped by unexpected turns, international experiences, and a deep commitment to community impact.

In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit with Mercedes & Scott, they talk with the CEO of the World Affairs Council of San Antonio, to uncover his incredible path. From volunteering at CASA to leading Big Brothers Big Sisters in Poland, Armen’s journey is a testament to the power of relationships, cultural insight, and community-driven leadership.

🎙️ Key Takeaways:
✅ How networking and mentorship shape nonprofit careers
✅ Lessons from leading nonprofits on an international scale
✅ Why local initiatives can create global ripple effects

Learn more about The Nonprofit Council

Join hosts Mercedes Allhaj and Scott McAninch as they sit down with Nino Tarantino, board chair and CEO of Chrysalis Ministries, to discuss the powerful work of reintegrating formerly incarcerated individuals into society. From his early career in a crime-ridden neighborhood to leading impactful nonprofit initiatives, Nino shares his inspiring journey of transformation and service.

In this episode, discover the vital role of partnerships in providing comprehensive support, explore innovative workforce reintegration strategies, and gain insight into the deep personal fulfillment that comes from mission-driven work.

This thought-provoking conversation on resilience, second chances, and the power of community in creating lasting change is broaught to you by and Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

More on The Nonprofit Council can be found here: The Nonprofit Council

Hosts:

• Mercedes Alhaj, COO at The NonProfit Council
• Scott McAninch, CEO at The NonProfit Council

Nonprofit Council

Presented by:
Methodist Healthcare Ministries

Welcome to the inaugural episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit! Join hosts Scott McAninch and Mercedes Alhaj as they delve into their personal journeys within the nonprofit sector and explore what inspired them to launch this podcast. Learn about their mission to uncover unique stories from nonprofit leaders who often find themselves in these roles through unexpected paths.

• Introduction to TNC Talks: Understanding the purpose behind creating a platform for sharing insights from nonprofit executive leadership.
• The Genesis of Their Collaboration: Discover how Scott and Mercedes have worked together for eight years, fostering growth and support among nonprofits.
• Personal Journeys Into Nonprofits:
  • Scott’s Transition from Corporate Media: After two decades in TV/radio marketing, an unforeseen career shift led him to lead San Antonio's Nonprofit Council.
  • Mercedes' Path Through Education & Finance: From teaching preschoolers to managing wealth at USAA, her journey eventually crossed paths with nonprofits through serendipitous encounters.

• Insights on how various life events or chance meetings can steer individuals toward impactful careers in nonprofits.
• Reflections on transitioning from corporate environments into more community-focused roles that offer fulfillment beyond traditional job satisfaction.
• An exciting preview of future episodes featuring diverse voices in nonprofit leadership sharing their compelling narratives.

If you're curious about what drives people into rewarding yet challenging roles within nonprofits—or if you seek inspiration for your own career path—this podcast offers candid conversations revealing both heartwarming connections and professional transformations.